Single parenting has become more and more common across the United States in the last couple of decades. In Georgia, child custody arrangements and child support have become necessary as non-traditional families have become more prevalent. Since women used to be the main caretakers at home, the custody system, which some claim is outdated, often seems to favor the mother. Some people thinks that it is time for this to change.
When a mother is given sole custody, a father is left paying child support. In this arrangement, the support is intended to help the mother provide for the needs of the couple’s children. Unfortunately, all too often, fathers become disenchanted because of the way the system works.
Many fathers believe that child support would be more meaningful if they could decide how to use their money on their children. Many believe that buying items, such as diapers, would allow them to play a more tangible role in their children’s lives. As men are playing a more active role in their children’s lives, many believe that it is time for child support guidelines to be reformed.
Child custody and child support are important for ensuring that children maintain relationships with both parents; therefore, these matters must be discussed in all cases in which unmarried couples share children. Fortunately, modern parents have more flexibility than ever before when it comes to their shared children. With the assistance of family law professionals, Georgia parents can better understand various ways to work together to provide for their children.
Source: The Boston Globe, “How ‘deadbeats’ can still be good dads”, Ruth Graham, Dec. 5, 2014